Africa-Press – Botswana. Government intend to upgrade Letsholathebe Memorial hospital into a fully-fledged referral hospital in a bid to improve healthcare service delivery, Assistant Minister of Health, Mr Lawrence Ookeditse said.
Responding to some comments raised by some residents with regard to numerous challenges of inadequate service in terms of shortage of doctors and specialists as well as shortage of drugs, he urged them to exercise patience as the ministry was aware of the challenges and that the facility was servicing a high population.
The intention, he said was to ensure the hospital provided the the same services as of those provided by Princess Marina and Nyangwagwe Referral hospitals noting that it was disturbing to hear that patients traveled long distances as far as Francistown to access specialised services.
By upgrading of the facility, he said residents would access quality healthcare services under one roof including specialised services. Mr Ookeditse said convenience was key, especially when it comes to healthcare adding that government had committed to providing a comprehensive health services in a single facility so that patients access them easily instead of travelling long distances.
He also mentioned that offering treatments at a single facility would optimise resources, prioritise patient care, and ensure that patients received timely treatment without unnecessary delays, thereby enhancing their overall healthcare outcomes.
Earlier, residents expressed their concerns about the shortage of certain specialists at Letsholathebe Hospital. They also called for the Matshwane Clinic to be upgraded to operate 24/7 and provide a full range of services, as well as the construction of a maternity wing at the clinic.
Additionally, residents lamented the delays in completing the refurbishment of the old Maun Hospital, stating that the facility could help alleviate the pressure on Letsholathebe Hospital.
The project commenced in July 2017 and was scheduled for completion in July 2018; however, it faced delays due to minor building work issues. The hospital was expected to function as a 24-hour clinic.
Residents also reported incidents of theft of electrical works and vandalism of staff houses, attributed to inadequate security at the site. In response, Deputy Council Secretary Dr Sandra Maripe-Ebutswe explained that the project experienced setbacks because the initial contractor was unable to deliver as expected.
Consequently, authorities had to engage a new contractor to complete the project. However, the initial contractor took the matter to court, expressing dissatisfaction with the developments.
“The matter is still before the courts, and we have to await the outcome,” she added.
Dr Maripe-Ebutswe acknowledged the occurrence of vandalism and theft at the site, but emphasised that efforts were being made to address these issues.
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